FIFA vice-president, Victor Montagliani, has said the world football governing body is examining possible changes to its rules, regarding players’ nationalities that could loosen restrictions on players’ switching allegiances.

Under FIFA “cap-tying” rules, footballers who have played in a competitive game for one country may not change.

But Montagliani, speaking to reporters after a stakeholders committee meeting on Thursday, said those bylaws have some issues.

“There are so many issues that have popped up over the years because the world is changing, immigration is changing.

“There are nationality issues that pop up all over the world, in Africa, there are issues in Asia and CONCACAF, so its a good time to have a look at this and see if there are solutions, without hurting the integrity of the game,” he said.

FIFA may also consider compensating national federations, when players appear for youth teams but then switch allegiances for the senior team.